TEHRAN(Bazaar) – Professor Hossein Askari, who teaches international business at the George Washington University, says we are witnessing the beginning of the age of AI.
He adds: “It is the big story and it is not hype. It will change our lives more that has the internet.”
Following is the text of the Bazaar interview with Professor Hossein Askari.
Q: The year 2023 is coming to an end and the world has witnessed various developments in this year. In your opinion, what has been the most important development this year?
A: The most important is the Gaza War. Although there are other wars that did not start this year, this war stands out for many reasons. I think that it will change the face of the Middle East. Alliances will change for years to come. I think from outside the region because of this war, we will see a reduced U.S. presence in the region and more Chinese engagement. Also, this war is changing American attitudes towards Judaism, Zionism and Israel. We are in unchartered territory.
Q: In the field related to the economy, what development can be mentioned as a turning point this year?
A: Here I would have to say that two things, not one, stand out for me. We are witnessing the beginning of the age of AI. It is the big story and it is not hype. It will change our lives more that has the internet. The second story is the inflation is coming down in the U.S., Europe and the far East, resulting in a soft landing--we will avoid a recession.
Q: The war in Ukraine is still going on and there is some news from the western countries to lead Ukraine to talk with Moscow. According to some reports, the West has come to believe that this war cannot lead to a victory for Ukraine. What is your assessment and will we see peace talks in 2024?
A: I agree with this. The West is not United. The United States is truly divided. The U.S. Congress is mired in partisan bickering and the Republicans obey Mr. Trump. What is sad is that politicians do not understand that if they cut support for Ukraine, they will spend even more money re-arming and fighting Russia. What might keep the war going is if the West decides to freeze roughly $300 billion in Russian assets and use some of it for Ukraine--for weapons, economic aid and reconstruction.
Q: Despite serious tensions, the US and China are trying to manage these tensions. The meeting of the key officials of the two countries in this field has also focused on the same goal. Will this trend continue, or may an issue cause tension to get out of control, like Taiwan?
A: These tensions will continue for a number of reasons. First, U.S. lawmakers are not focused on national interest, but on personal interest that is largely their own re-election. Second, if you get Donald Trump as President for another four years, then we will get into even more serious tensions.
Q: One of the important topics in 2023 was the Gaza war. How long do you think this war will last?
A: The war as it is--with high intensity--till mid-January. Then months of minor skirmishes until the United States and the West decide that the only solution is two states and that NOW. No more talk but action to achieve a viable two-state solution within three years and to set the wheels in motion.
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